Another attempt is being made to turn part of a surgery in Bath into a house in multiple occupation (HMO).
St Michael’s Surgery at Walwyn Way in Twerton
In March we reported that St Michael’s Surgery at Walwyn Close in Twerton had been refused permission to turn the two-storey wing previously occupied by a dental practice into a four-bed HMO by altering the layout on both ground and first floors.
The main reason for Bath & North East Somerset Council refusing the GP surgery’s application was down to the risk of “sandwiching” No. 14 Walwyn Close between two HMOs as No.12 had received planning permission to become one in September 2021.
Planning officers were also concerned that two of the proposed bedrooms would have obscured glazed windows which, although designed to ensure no harmful overlooking for neighbours, would cause an unsatisfactory living environment for those living in the rooms.
The application also failed to secure an EPC (energy performance certificate) level C.
The latest application says that according to the council’s HMO map, there is no evidence of No.12 having implemented that change of use and that HMO permission at that property has now expired.
It adds that to overcome the issue with the windows “we have relocated one of the side windows to the north-west elevation which will enable the window to have clear glass without direct overlooking of the neighbouring property”.
In addition, a rooflight has been included to the central bedroom to improve the light levels and quality of the space.
The rear courtyard area will be partitioned using fencing. There will be provision for bicycle and bin storage.
The HMO will be accessed from Walwyn Close on the western façade and the existing surgery entrance on the east side retained.
The latest application says the current EPC rating ‘D’ can be increased to a C rating with small upgrades to the property such as new solar PV panels and loft insulation.
The applicant’s building consultants describe the scheme as “a sustainable, well-designed solution that will improve the quality and appearance of the existing building”.
The planning reference is 24/03706/FUL. The deadline for comments is 24th October.
